Like Water for Chocolate: A Novel in Monthly Installments, with Recipes, Romances, and Home Remedies

Earthy, magical, and utterly charming, this tale of family life in turn-of-the-century Mexico became a best-selling phenomenon with its winning blend of poignant romance and bittersweet wit. The classic love story takes place on the De la Garza ranch, as the tyrannical owner, Mama Elena, chops onions at the kitchen table in her final days of pregnancy. While still in her mother's womb, her daughter to be weeps so violently she causes an early labor, and little Tita slips out amid the spices and fixings for noodle soup. This early encounter with food soon becomes a way of life, and Tita grows up to be a master chef. She shares special points of her favorite preparations with listeners throughout the story.

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From the Back Cover:

"A tall-tale, fairy-tale, soap-opera romance, Mexican cookbook and home-remedy handbook all rolled into one, Like Water For Chocolate is one tasty entree from first-time novelist Laura Esquivel." -- San Francisco Chronicle

From AudioFile:

It's clear that narrator Arizmendi, who played daughter Rosaura in the film, has an affinity for Esquivel's work. She offers a lively reading of this story of thwarted love in turn-of-the-century Mexico. Arizmendi's rich accent and dramatic flair enhance the tale of Tita, who, by tradition, must forsake true love. She retreats to the kitchen where she channels her intense loss into cooking. The female characterizations are vibrant, and the descriptions of Tita's culinary creations are mouth-watering. The male voices lack inspiration, however. The story retains its continuity in a strong abridgment though occasional music disrupts rather than contributes to the setting. H.B.K. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine